Communications & mediaGovernment company
Aussat Pty Ltd
Aussat
1981 – 1992
National satellite company that owned and operated Australia's first domestic communications satellites, carrying television, radio, telephone and data services, particularly to remote and regional Australia.
How it came into existence
Incorporated by the Commonwealth in 1981 to own and operate a national communications satellite system, owned 75 per cent by the Commonwealth and 25 per cent by Telecom Australia.
Changes during its life
- 27 August 1985Its first satellite, AUSSAT A1, was launched from the Space Shuttle Discovery.
How it ended
Sold to Optus Communications, which received the second general telecommunications carrier licence, in 1992 as the telecommunications market was opened to competition.
Main functions
- Owning and operating domestic communications satellites
- Satellite television and radio distribution
- Remote area broadcasting and telephone services
- Satellite data and business services
Where it sits
Last in the portfolio of Department of Transport and Communications.
Lineage
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Sources
Some dates or links for this organisation are not fully confirmed. Corrections are welcome.